# Towards a Working Definition of Designing Generative User Interfaces

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.15049 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2505.15049/

## Key facts

- Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 5 of its 53 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 21 May 2025.

## Builds on (most cited first, 5 of 5)

- [Attention Is All You Need](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1706.03762/) (2017)
- [Zero-Shot Text-to-Image Generation](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2102.12092/) (2021)
- [Learning Implicit Fields for Generative Shape Modeling](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1812.02822/) (2018)
- [Unremarkable AI: Fitting Intelligent Decision Support into Critical, Clinical Decision-Making Processes](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1904.09612/) (2019)
- [How Interaction Designers Use Tools to Manage Ideas](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2002.08139/) (2020)

## Built on by (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [Power Echoes: Investigating Moderation Biases in Online Power-Asymmetric Conflicts](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2603.01457/) (2026)
- [Automating the Application of HCI Principles: Skills for On-Demand UI Construction, the Human-AI Space to Think, and the Future of HCI](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2610.02369/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Generative UI is transforming interface design by facilitating AI-driven collaborative workflows between designers and computational systems. This study establishes a working definition of Generative UI through a multi-method qualitative approach, integrating insights from a systematic literature review of 127 publications, expert interviews with 18 participants, and analyses of 12 case studies. Our findings identify five core themes that position Generative UI as an iterative and co-creative process. We highlight emerging design models, including hybrid creation, curation-based workflows, and AI-assisted refinement strategies. Additionally, we examine ethical challenges, evaluation criteria, and interaction models that shape the field. By proposing a conceptual foundation, this study advances both theoretical discourse and practical implementation, guiding future HCI research toward responsible and effective generative UI design practices.